Fixturing apparatus

ABSTRACT

A fixturing apparatus that includes a housing defining an interior space and having a trapezoidal cross-section, a first end, and an opposing second end, and is formed to include an aperture extending therethrough from the first end to said second end.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a Divisional of U.S. application Ser. No.12/741,821, filed on Sep. 30, 2010, which is incorporated herein byreference and which claimed priority from an International PatentApplication having a PCT Application No. PCT/US08/82685 filed on Nov. 6,2008, which is incorporated herein by reference and which claimedpriority from a U.S. Provisional Patent Application having Ser. No.60/985,881 filed Nov. 6, 2007 which is hereby incorporated herein byreference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates to a fixturing apparatus and to a method to formthat fixturing apparatus. In certain embodiments, the invention relatesto a fixturing apparatus for cables.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

It is known in the art to releaseably attached a first surface to asecond surface by disposing a plurality of flexible loop-type fastenerson one of the surfaces and a plurality of flexible hook-type fastenerson the other surface. When mated, the plurality of flexible hook-typefasteners engage with the plurality of flexible loop-type fasteners toreleaseably secure the first surface to the second surface.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention will be better understood from a reading of the followingdetailed description taken in conjunction with the drawings in whichlike reference designators are used to designate like elements, and inwhich:

FIG. 1 illustrates Applicant's fixturing apparatus 100;

FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of Applicant's fixturingapparatus;

FIG. 3A illustrates a subassembly used to form the fixturing apparatusof FIG. 1;

FIG. 3B illustrates two of the subassemblies of FIG. 3A being attachedto one another to form the fixturing apparatus of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3C is a cross-sectional view of the fixturing apparatus of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3D shows a first embodiment of Applicant's rigid locking tooth;

FIG. 3E shows a second embodiment of Applicant's rigid locking tooth;

FIG. 3F shows a third embodiment of Applicant's rigid locking tooth;

FIG. 3G shows a second perspective view of the rigid locking tooth ofFIG. 3F;

FIG. 3H shows a fourth embodiment of Applicant's rigid locking tooth;

FIG. 4A is a perspective view of a plurality of Applicant's rigidlocking teeth arranged in a first orientation;

FIG. 4B is a first top view of the plurality of Applicant's rigidlocking teeth shown in FIG. 4A;

FIG. 4C is a second top view of the plurality of Applicant's rigidlocking teeth shown in FIG. 4A;

FIG. 5A is a first top view of the plurality of Applicant's rigidlocking teeth arranged in a second orientation;

FIG. 5B is a top view of four of Applicant's rigid locking teetharranged in the orientation of FIG. 5A;

FIG. 5C shows the angle formed by the intersection of the long axes oftwo adjacent rigid locking teeth in the same column, wherein those rigidlocking teeth are arranged in the orientation of FIG. 5A;

FIG. 5D is a second top view of the plurality of Applicant's rigidlocking teeth shown in FIG. 5A;

FIG. 6A is a first top view of the plurality of Applicant's rigidlocking teeth arranged in a third orientation;

FIG. 6B is a second top view of the plurality of rigid locking teethshown in FIG. 6A;

FIG. 7A is a perspective view of Applicant's rigid locking teetharranged in a fourth orientation;

FIG. 7B is a first top view of the plurality of Applicant's rigidlocking teeth arranged in the orientation of FIG. 7A;

FIG. 7C is a second top view of the plurality of rigid locking teethshown in FIG. 7A;

FIG. 8A is a first top view of the plurality of Applicant's rigidlocking teeth arranged in a fifth orientation;

FIG. 8B is a second top view of the plurality of rigid locking teethshown in FIG. 8A;

FIG. 9A is a first top view of the plurality of Applicant's rigidlocking teeth arranged in a sixth orientation; and

FIG. 9B is a second top view of the plurality of rigid locking teethshown in FIG. 9A.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

This invention is described in preferred embodiments in the followingdescription with reference to the Figures, in which like numbersrepresent the same or similar elements. Reference throughout thisspecification to “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” or similar languagemeans that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic describedin connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodimentof the present invention. Thus, appearances of the phrases “in oneembodiment,” “in an embodiment,” and similar language throughout thisspecification may, but do not necessarily, all refer to the sameembodiment.

The described features, structures, or characteristics of the inventionmay be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. Inthe following description, numerous specific details are recited toprovide a thorough understanding of embodiments of the invention. Oneskilled in the relevant art will recognize, however, that the inventionmay be practiced without one or more of the specific details, or withother methods, components, materials, and so forth. In other instances,well-known structures, materials, or operations are not shown ordescribed in detail to avoid obscuring aspects of the invention.

Referring now to FIGS. 1 and 2, fixturing apparatus 100 comprises ahousing comprising a subassembly 102A and a subassembly 102B, and isformed to include an aperture 106 extending therethrough. In theillustrated embodiment of FIG. 1, a flexible strap 200 is disposedpartially around a cable 230, wherein a first end 210 of flexible strap200 has been inserted into a first end 101 aperture 106, moved throughaperture 106, and moved outwardly through a second end 103 of aperture106. Similarly, a second end 220 of flexible strap 200 has been insertedinto a first end 101 aperture 106, moved through aperture 106, and movedoutwardly through a second end 103 of aperture 106.

In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 1, a first plurality of rigidlocking teeth 104A are formed in subassembly 102A, and second pluralityof rigid locking teeth 104B are formed in subassembly 102B.

FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of fixturing assembly 100,flexible strap 200, and cable 230.

Referring to FIGS. 3A, 3B, and 3C, each subassembly 102 comprises aU-shaped housing comprising a first lip 110, an opposing second lip 140.Each subassembly 110 further comprises a first side wall 120interconnecting a first end of first lip 110 and a first end of secondlip 140, and a second side wall 130 interconnecting a second end offirst lip 110 and a second end of second lip 140. A bottom 150interconnects from lip 110, read lip 140, first side 120, and secondside 130. A plurality of locking teeth 104 extend outwardly from bottom150.

Side wall 120 and side wall 130 each comprises a height 122 where sidewall 120 and side wall 130 each connect to first lip 110, and a height124 where side wall 120 and side wall each connect to second lip 140. Incertain embodiments, height 122 is greater than height 124. In theseembodiments, side walls 120 and 130 comprise a trapezoidal shape.

In certain embodiments, side wall 120, first lip 110, side wall 130, andsecond lip 140, are integrally formed by, for example, injectionmolding. In certain embodiments, side wall 120, first lip 110, side wall130, second lip 140, bottom 150, and the plurality of locking teeth 104,are integrally formed by, for example, injection molding.

Each first lip and each second lip are formed to have a height 170. Eachof the plurality of locking teeth 104 are formed to have a height 160.In certain embodiments, height 170 is greater than height 160. Incertain embodiments, height 160 is greater than height 170.

In certain embodiments, Applicant's plurality of rigid locking teeth areformed from one or more metals. In certain embodiments, Applicant'splurality of rigid locking teeth are formed from one or more ceramicmaterials. In certain embodiments, Applicant's plurality of rigidlocking teeth are formed from a polymeric material selected from a groupconsisting of nylon, polyamide, polyimide, polyamideimide, polyurethane,polyethylene, polypropylene, polycarbonate, polystyrene, andcombinations thereof. In certain embodiments, fixturing subassembly 102is formed as an integral unit from a polymeric material selected fromthe group consisting of nylon, polyamide, polyimide, polyamideimide,polyurethane, polyethylene, polypropylene, polycarbonate, polystyrene,and combinations thereof.

FIG. 3C is a cross-sectional view of Applicant's fixturing apparatus100, and shows a first plurality of rigid locking teeth 220, 230, 240,and 250, disposed on bottom portion 150A of first subassembly 102A.Rigid locking tooth 220 is formed to include a sloping side portion 222,and a gripping edge 224. Similarly, rigid locking teeth 230, 240, and250, are formed to include sloping side portions 232, 242, and 252,respectively. Rigid locking teeth 220, 230, 240, and 250, are furtherformed to include gripping edges 224, 234, 244, and 254, respectively.

FIG. 3C further shows a second plurality of rigid locking teeth 260,270, 280, and 290, disposed on bottom portion 150B of second subassembly102B. Rigid locking teeth 260, 270, 280, and 290, are formed to includesloping side portions 262, 272, 282, and 292, respectively. Rigidlocking teeth 260, 270, 280, and 290, are further formed to includegripping edges 264, 274, 284, and 294, respectively.

A fabric material, such as for example and without limitation strap 200,will slide across rigid locking teeth 220, 230, 240, 250, 260, 270, 280,and 290 in the non-fixturing direction 380, wherein that fabric movesacross the sloping side portion of a rigid locking tooth beforecontacting the gripping edge of that rigid locking tooth. A fabricmaterial will not, however, slide across rigid locking teeth 220, 230,240, 250, 260, 270, 280, and 290, in the opposite, or fixturingdirection 390. Rather when a force is applied to the fabric along thefixturing direction 390, portions of the fabric will engage grippingedges 224, 234, 244, 254, 264, 274, 284, and 294, thereby preventingmovement of the fabric along the fixturing direction.

In embodiments wherein the fabric material comprises a plurality offlexible loop-type fasteners disposed on a surface in contact withlocking teeth gripping edges 224, 234, 244, and 254, the gripping edgesengage those flexible loop-type fasteners thereby preventing movement ofthe fabric in the fixturing direction. Similarly, in embodiments whereinthe fabric material comprises a plurality of flexible loop-typefasteners disposed on a surface in contact with locking teeth grippingedges 264, 274, 284, and 294, the gripping edges engage those flexibleloop-type fasteners thereby preventing movement of the fabric in thefixturing direction.

Referring now to FIG. 3B, Applicant's fixturing apparatus 100 is formedby attaching a top of a side wall 120A of a first fixturing subassembly102A to a top of a side wall 130B of a second fixturing subassembly102B, and by attaching a top of a side wall 130A of the first fixturingsubassembly 102A to a top of a side wall 120B of the second fixturingsubassembly 102B. Height 122 of a first end of side walls 120 and 130 isgreater than both height 160 of the plurality of locking teeth andheight 170 of first and second lip 110 and 140, respectively. Inaddition, height 124 of a second end of side walls 120 and 130 isgreater than both height 160 of the plurality of locking teeth andheight 170 of first and second lip 110 and 140, respectively. As aresult, when assembly 102 A is attached to assembly 102B an aperture 106(FIG. 1) is formed and extends from a first end defined by first lip110A and 110B through the fixturing apparatus 100 and to a second enddefined by second lip 140A and 140B.

In certain embodiments, Applicant's fixturing apparatus 100 comprises atrapezoidal cross-section, a first side, and an opposing second side,and is formed to include an aperture extending therethrough from thefirst side to said the side. In certain embodiments, the aperture isdefined by four walls.

An end of a flexible strap can be inserted into a first end 101 of theaperture 106, and moved in a first direction through said aperture andoutwardly therefrom through a second end 103 of the aperture. Afterinsertion in and through the aperture in the first direction, theflexible strap cannot be moved-backwardly through the aperture in asecond and 180 degree opposite direction.

In certain embodiments, flexible strap 200 comprises a fabric. By“fabric,” Applicant means a flexible material formed by weaving orfelting or knitting or crocheting natural and/or synthetic fibers. Incertain embodiments, strap 200 comprises a nylon fabric. In certainembodiments, strap 200 comprises a cotton or polyester fabric.

In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 2, flexible strap 200 furthercomprises a plurality of flexible loop-type fasteners 108 disposed onsurface 202, such that the plurality of loop-type fasteners 108 are incontact with both the first plurality of locking teeth 104A and thesecond plurality of locking teeth 104B.

In certain embodiments, first end 210 of flexible strap 200 can beinserted into first end 101 (FIGS. 2B, 2C) of aperture 106 (FIG. 1), andmoved in direction 380 (FIG. 3C) through aperture 106 and outwardlythrough second end 103 (FIGS. 2B, 2C) of aperture 106 (FIG. 1). Afterinsertion in and through aperture 106 (FIG. 1) in first direction 380(FIG. 3C), first end 210 cannot be moved-backwardly through aperture 106in second direction 390 (FIG. 3C).

In certain embodiments, second end 220 of flexible strap 210 can beinserted into the first end 101 (FIGS. 2B, 2C) of aperture 106 (FIG. 1),and moved in direction 380 (FIG. 3C) through aperture 106 and outwardlythrough second end 103 (FIGS. 2B, 2C) of aperture 106 (FIG. 1). Afterinsertion in and through aperture 106 (FIG. 1) in first direction 380(FIG. 3C), flexible second end 220 cannot be moved-backwardly throughaperture 106 in second direction 390 (FIG. 3C).

Applicant has found that fixturing is extremely strong when the strap200 is confined to an enclosed channel, such as aperture 106, extendingthrough fixturing apparatus 100.

In certain embodiments, one or more of Applicant's rigid locking teethcomprises a rectangular base, a first rectangular surface attached to afirst end of said rectangular base and extending outwardly therefrom,and a second rectangular surface attached to an opposing end of saidrectangular base and extending outwardly therefrom, wherein a firstrectangular surface distal end is attached to a said second rectangularsurface distal end to form a gripping edge. For example and referringnow to FIG. 3D, in certain embodiments Applicant's fixturing apparatuscomprises one or more looking teeth 300. Rigid locking tooth 300comprises a first embodiment of a five-sided structure.

Referring now to FIG. 3E, in certain embodiments Applicant's fixturingapparatus comprises one or more looking teeth 302. Rigid locking tooth302 comprises a second embodiment of a five-sided structure.

Rigid locking teeth 300 and 302 comprise a rectangular base 310, a firstrectangular surface 320 attached to a first end 314 of rectangular base310 and extending outwardly therefrom, a second rectangular surface 340attached to a second end 318 of rectangular base 310 and extendingoutwardly therefrom, wherein a first rectangular surface distal end isattached to a said second rectangular surface distal end to form agripping edge 324.

With respect to rigid locking tooth 300, the first rectangular surface320 in combination with rectangular base 310 define an internal dihedralangle of about 90 degrees. With respect to rigid locking tooth 302, thefirst rectangular surface 320 in combination with rectangular base 310define an internal dihedral angle Φ greater than 90 degrees. In certainembodiments, Φ is about 110 degrees. In certain embodiments, Φ is about120 degrees.

Referring now to FIG. 3F, in certain embodiments Applicant's fixturingapparatus comprises one or more rigid locking teeth 304. Rigid lockingtooth 304 comprises a first embodiment of a six-sided structure.Referring now to FIG. 3H, in certain embodiments Applicant's fixturingapparatus comprises one or more looking teeth 306. Rigid locking tooth306 comprises a second embodiment of a six-sided structure.

In certain embodiments, Applicant's fixturing apparatus comprises zeroor more rigid locking teeth 300, in combination with zero or more rigidlocking teeth 302, in combination with zero or more rigid locking teeth304, in combination with zero or more rigid locking teeth 306.

FIG. 3F shows Applicant's rigid locking tooth 304. The lengths, widths,heights, and axes, described with respect to rigid locking tooth 304also apply to rigid locking teeth 300, 302, and 306. Base 310 comprisesa rectangular shape defined by sides 312, 314, 316, and 318. Base 310comprises a length 372 and a width 382. In certain embodiments, length372 is between about 0.0002 mm and about 5.0 mm. In certain embodiments,width 382 is between about 0.0001 mm and about 2.5 mm.

Rectangular-shaped side 320, defined by sides 314, 322, 324, and 326, isattached to edge 314 of base 310 and extends upwardly therefrom. In theillustrated embodiment of FIG. 3A, side 320 and base 310 intersect toform a dihedral angle of about ninety degrees (90°). Side 320 comprisesa height 375 and width 382.

In certain embodiments, height 375 is between about 0.0001 mm and about5 mm. In certain embodiments, height 375 is about 0.0001 mm. In certainembodiments, height 375 is about 0.001 mm. In certain embodiments,height 375 is about 0.01 mm. In certain embodiments, height 375 is about0.1 mm. In certain embodiments, height 375 is about 1 mm.

Rectangular-shaped side 330, defined by sides 318, 332, 334, and 336, isattached edge 318 of base 310, and extends upwardly therefrom. In theillustrated embodiment of FIG. 3F, side 330 and base 310 intersect toform a dihedral angle of about ninety degrees (90°). Side 330 comprisesa height 385 and width 382. In certain embodiments, height 385 isbetween about 0 mm and about 2.0 mm.

As those skilled in the art will appreciate, where height 385 is 0 mm,rigid locking tooth 304 becomes rigid locking tooth 300. Where height385 is 0 mm, sides 336 and 318 are the same, and top portion 340intersects with base portion 310. The dimensions and axes described inFIGS. 3A through 3B are applicable to both rigid locking tooth 300 andrigid locking tooth 305.

Sides 320 and 330 have a facing relationship, wherein height 320 isgreater than height 330. In certain embodiments wherein height 385 isgreater than 0, the ratio of height 375 to height 385 is between about2:1 to about 6:1.

Top 340 comprises a rectangular shape, and is defined by sides 324, 342,336, and 344. Top 340 comprises width 382. Referring now to FIGS. 3A and3D, side 350 comprises a quadrilateral shape with two parallel sides 326and 334, and is defined by sides 312, 326, 334, and 344. Referring nowto FIGS. 3A and 3E, side 360 comprises a quadrilateral shape with twoparallel sides 322 and 332, and is defined by sides 316, 322, 332, and342.

Referring now to FIG. 3G, rigid locking tooth 300 comprises a long axis390 comprising a first center line of base 210, wherein that long axis390 is parallel to long sides 312 and 316 and bisects short sides 314and 318. Rigid locking tooth 300 further comprises short axis 395comprising a second center line of base 210, wherein that short axis 395is parallel to short sides 314 and 318 bisects long sides 312 and 316.

FIGS. 3E and 3H illustrate Applicant's rigid locking teeth 302 and 306.

As a general matter, individual rigid locking teeth disposed in anygiven plurality of rigid locking teeth 104 are arranged in a pattern ofcolumns and rows. In various embodiments of Applicant's invention, theorientations of individual rigid locking teeth disposed in such columnsand rows differ. These various orientations are described herein withreference to the relationship of the long axes 390 (FIG. 3G) and shortaxes 395 (FIG. 3G) of adjacent rigid locking teeth in the same column,and the relationship of the long axes 390 and short axes 395 of adjacentrigid locking teeth in the same row.

References herein to axes being “aligned” mean that those axes arecoaxial and/or parallel, i.e. overlap one another. Axes described hereinas not being aligned are not coaxial, i.e. do not overlap. Inorientations 400 (FIG. 4A) and 700 (FIG. 7A), the long axes of adjacentrigid locking teeth disposed in the same column are aligned. Inorientations 500, 600, 800, and 900, the long axes of adjacent rigidlocking teeth disposed in the same column are not aligned. Inorientations 400, 500, 700, and 800, the long axes of adjacent rigidlocking teeth disposed in the same row are parallel. In orientations 600and 900, the long axes of adjacent rigid locking teeth disposed in thesame row are not parallel.

In orientations 400, the short axes of adjacent rigid locking teethdisposed in the same row are aligned. In orientations 500, 600, 700,800, and 900, the short axes of adjacent rigid locking teeth disposed inthe same row are not aligned.

FIG. 4A shows a portion of plurality of Applicant's rigid locking teeth,such as plurality of rigid locking teeth 104, wherein that plurality ofrigid locking teeth comprise orientation 400. In certain embodiments,each of the plurality of rigid locking teeth shown in FIG. 4A comprisesa rigid locking tooth 300. In certain embodiments, each of the pluralityof rigid locking teeth shown in FIG. 4A comprises a rigid locking tooth302. In certain embodiments, each of the plurality of rigid lockingteeth shown in FIG. 4A comprises a rigid locking tooth 304. In certainembodiments, each of the plurality of rigid locking teeth shown in FIG.4A comprises a rigid locking tooth 306. In certain embodiments, each ofthe plurality of rigid locking teeth shown in FIG. 4A is selected fromthe group consisting of a rigid locking tooth 300, a rigid locking tooth302, a rigid locking tooth 304, and a rigid locking tooth 306.

In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 4A, the plurality of rigid lockingteeth are arranged in columns and rows, namely columns 1, 2, 3, and 4,and rows 1, 2, 3, and 4. In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 4A, rigidlocking tooth 1,1 for example is disposed in column 1 and row 1. For thesake of clarity, FIG. 4A shows a total of 16 rigid locking teeth. Inactual implementation, Applicant's plurality of rigid locking teeth 104comprises between about one hundred, and about ten thousand individualrigid locking teeth, per square inch.

FIGS. 4B and 4C comprise top views of orientation 400 shown in FIG. 4A.Referring now to FIG. 4B, the rigid locking teeth comprising column 1are separated from the rigid locking teeth comprising column 2 by aspacing 402. In certain embodiments, spacing 402 is substantially thesame as the width 382 (FIG. 3F) of the individual rigid locking teeth.By “substantially the same,” Applicant means within plus or minus tenpercent (10%). In other embodiments, spacing 402 is less than width 382.In still other embodiments, spacing 402 is greater than width 382.

Similarly, column 2 and 3 are separated by spacing 404, and column 3 andcolumn 4 are separated by spacing 406. In certain embodiments, spacing404 is substantially the same as the width 382 (FIG. 3F) of theindividual rigid locking teeth. In other embodiments, spacing 404 isless than width 382. In still other embodiments, spacing 404 is greaterthan width 382. In certain embodiments, spacing 406 is substantially thesame as the width 382 (FIG. 3F) of the individual rigid locking teeth.In other embodiments, spacing 406 is less than width 382. In still otherembodiments, spacing 406 is greater than width 382.

In orientation 400 shown in FIGS. 4A, 4B, and 4C, the long axes 390 ofeach rigid locking tooth disposed in a column are aligned, and the shortaxis 395 of each rigid locking tooth disposed in a row are aligned. Forexample, rigid locking teeth 1,1; 1,2; 1,3; and 1,4; are each disposedin column 1. Aggregate long axis 450 comprises the individual long axis390 of each of rigid locking teeth 1,1; 1,2; 1,3; and 1,4. Similarly,aggregate long axes 460, 470, and 480, comprise the individual long axis390 of each rigid locking tooth disposed in columns 2, 3, and 4,respectively.

Rigid locking teeth 1,1; 2,1; 3,1; and 4,1; are disposed in row 1.Aggregate short axis 410 comprises the individual short axis 395 (FIG.3G) of each of rigid locking teeth 1,1; 2,1; 3,1; and 4,1. Similarly,aggregate short axes 420, 430, and 440, comprise the individual shortaxis 395 of each tooth disposed in rows 2, 3, and 4, respectively.

FIG. 5A shows a portion of plurality of Applicant's rigid locking teeth,wherein that plurality of rigid locking teeth comprise orientation 500.In certain embodiments, each of the plurality of rigid locking teethshown in FIG. 5A comprises a rigid locking tooth 300. In certainembodiments, each of the plurality of rigid locking teeth shown in FIG.5A comprises a rigid locking tooth 302. In certain embodiments, each ofthe plurality of rigid locking teeth shown in FIG. 5A comprises a rigidlocking tooth 304. In certain embodiments, each of the plurality ofrigid locking teeth shown in FIG. 5A comprises a rigid locking tooth306. In certain embodiments, each of the plurality of rigid lockingteeth shown in FIG. 5A is selected from the group consisting of a rigidlocking tooth 300, a rigid locking tooth 302, a rigid locking tooth 304,and a rigid locking tooth 306.

In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 5A, the plurality of rigid lockingteeth are arranged in columns and rows, namely columns 1, 2, 3, and 4,and rows 1, 2, 3, and 4. In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 5A, rigidlocking tooth 1,1 for example is disposed in column 1 and row 1. For thesake of clarity, FIG. 5A shows a total of 16 rigid locking teeth.

The rigid locking teeth comprising column 1 are separated from the rigidlocking teeth comprising column 2 by a spacing 502. In certainembodiments, spacing 502 is substantially the same as the width 382(FIG. 3F) of the individual rigid locking teeth. By “substantially thesame,” Applicant means within plus or minus ten percent (10%). In otherembodiments, spacing 502 is less than width 382. In still otherembodiments, spacing 502 is greater than width 382.

Similarly, column 2 and 3 are separated by spacing 504, and column 3 andcolumn 4 are separated by spacing 506. In certain embodiments, spacing504 is substantially the same as the width 382 (FIG. 3F) of theindividual rigid locking teeth. In other embodiments, spacing 504 isless than width 382. In still other embodiments, spacing 504 is greaterthan width 382. In certain embodiments, spacing 506 is substantially thesame as the width 382 (FIG. 3F) of the individual rigid locking teeth.In other embodiments, spacing 506 is less than width 382. In still otherembodiments, spacing 506 is greater than width 382.

FIG. 5B comprise a top view of one column of rigid locking teethdisposed in orientation 500. In orientation 500, the individual longaxes 390 (FIG. 3G) of each rigid locking tooth disposed in a column arenot aligned. For example, rigid locking tooth 1,1 comprises long axis515, and the adjacent rigid locking tooth in column 1, namely rigidlocking tooth 1,2, comprises long axis 525. As FIGS. 5B and 5Cillustrate, long axes 515 and 525 are not aligned. Rather, long axis 525is offset from long axis 515 by a first offset angle 1. In certainembodiments, first offset angle 1 is between about 5 degrees and about45 degrees.

Similarly, long axis 535 is offset from long axis 525 by a second offsetangle. In certain embodiments, second offset angle is between about 5degrees and about 45 degrees. Long axis 545 is offset from long axis 535by a third offset angle. In certain embodiments, the third offset angleis between about 5 degrees and about 45 degrees. As a general matter, inorientation 500 the long axis for the (i)th rigid locking tooth in (j)thcolumn is offset from the long axis of the adjacent (i+1)th rigidlocking tooth in that (j)th column by the (i)th offset angle.

In orientation 500 illustrated in FIGS. 5A and 5D, the long axes 390(FIG. 3G) of adjacent rigid locking teeth disposed in the same columnare not aligned, however the long axes of the rigid locking teeth in thesame row are parallel. Rigid locking teeth 1,4; 2,4; 3,4; and 4,4, areall disposed in row 4, and comprise long axes 510, 520, 530, and 540,respectively. As illustrated in FIG. 5D, long axes 510, 520, 530, and540, are parallel.

FIG. 6A shows a portion of Applicant's plurality of rigid locking teeth,wherein that plurality of rigid locking teeth comprise orientation 600.In certain embodiments, each of the plurality of rigid locking teethshown in FIG. 6A comprises a rigid locking tooth 300. In certainembodiments, each of the plurality of rigid locking teeth shown in FIG.6A comprises a rigid locking tooth 302. In certain embodiments, each ofthe plurality of rigid locking teeth shown in FIG. 6A comprises a rigidlocking tooth 304. In certain embodiments, each of the plurality ofrigid locking teeth shown in FIG. 6A comprises a rigid locking tooth306. In certain embodiments, each of the plurality of rigid lockingteeth shown in FIG. 6A is selected from the group consisting of a rigidlocking tooth 300, a rigid locking tooth 302, a rigid locking tooth 304,and a rigid locking tooth 306.

In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 6A, the plurality of rigid lockingteeth are arranged in columns and rows, namely columns 1, 2, 3, and 4,and rows 1, 2, 3, and 4. In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 6A, rigidlocking tooth 1,1 for example is disposed in column 1 and row 1. For thesake of clarity, FIG. 6A shows a total of 16 rigid locking teeth. Inactual implementation, Applicant's plurality of rigid locking teeth 104comprises between about one hundred, and about ten thousand individualrigid locking teeth.

The rigid locking teeth comprising column 1 are separated from the rigidlocking teeth comprising column 2 by a maximum spacing 602. In certainembodiments, maximum spacing 602 is substantially the same as the width382 (FIG. 3F) of the individual rigid locking teeth. By “substantiallythe same,” Applicant means within plus or minus twenty percent (20%). Inother embodiments, maximum spacing 602 is less than width 382. In stillother embodiments, maximum spacing 602 is greater than width 382.

Similarly, column 2 and 3 are separated by spacing maximum 604, andcolumn 3 and column 4 are separated by maximum spacing 606. In certainembodiments, maximum spacing 604 is substantially the same as the width382 (FIG. 3F) of the individual rigid locking teeth. In otherembodiments, maximum spacing 604 is less than width 382. In stilt otherembodiments, maximum spacing 604 is greater than width 382. In certainembodiments, maximum spacing 606 is substantially the same as the width382 (FIG. 3F) of the individual rigid locking teeth. In otherembodiments, maximum spacing 606 is less than width 382. In still otherembodiments, maximum spacing 606 is greater than width 382.

In orientation 600 illustrated in FIGS. 6A and 6B, the long axes 390(FIG. 3G) of adjacent rigid locking teeth disposed in the same columnare not aligned. Moreover, the long axes of the rigid locking teeth inthe same row are not parallel. Rigid locking teeth 1,4; 2,4; 3,4; and4,4, are all disposed in row 4, and comprise long axes 610, 620, 630,and 640, respectively. As illustrated in FIG. 6B, long axes 610 is notparallel to long axis 620, which is not parallel to long axis 630, whichis not parallel to long axis 640.

FIG. 7A shows a portion of Applicant's plurality of rigid locking teeth,wherein that plurality of rigid locking teeth comprise orientation 700.In certain embodiments, each of the plurality of rigid locking teethshown in FIG. 7A comprises a rigid locking tooth 300. In certainembodiments, each of the plurality of rigid locking teeth shown in FIG.7A comprises a rigid locking tooth 302. In certain embodiments, each ofthe plurality of rigid locking teeth shown in FIG. 7A comprises a rigidlocking tooth 304. In certain embodiments, each of the plurality ofrigid locking teeth shown in FIG. 7A comprises a rigid locking tooth306. In certain embodiments, each of the plurality of rigid lockingteeth shown in FIG. 7A is selected from the group consisting of a rigidlocking tooth 300, a rigid locking tooth 302, a rigid locking tooth 304,and a rigid locking tooth 306.

In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 7B, the plurality of rigid lockingteeth comprising orientation 700 are arranged in columns and rows,namely columns 1, 2, 3, and 4, and rows 1, 2, 3, and 4. In theillustrated embodiment of FIG. 7B, rigid locking tooth 1,1 for exampleis disposed in column 1 and row 1. For the sake of clarity, FIG. 7Bshows a total of 16 rigid locking teeth.

The rigid locking teeth comprising column 1 are separated from the rigidlocking teeth comprising column 2 by a spacing 702. In certainembodiments, spacing 702 is substantially the same as the width 382(FIG. 3F) of the individual rigid locking teeth. By “substantially thesame,” Applicant means within plus or minus ten percent (10%). In otherembodiments, spacing 702 is less than width 382. In still otherembodiments, spacing 702 is greater than width 382.

Similarly, column 2 and 3 are separated by spacing 704, and column 3 andcolumn 4 are separated by spacing 706. In certain embodiments, spacing704 is substantially the same as the width 382 (FIG. 3F) of theindividual rigid locking teeth. In other embodiments, spacing 704 isless than width 382. In still other embodiments, spacing 704 is greaterthan width 382. In certain embodiments, spacing 706 is substantially thesame as the width 382 (FIG. 3F) of the individual rigid locking teeth.In other embodiments, spacing 706 is less than width 382. In still otherembodiments, spacing 706 is greater than width 382.

In orientation 700 illustrated in FIGS. 7A, 7B, and 7C, the long axes390 (FIG. 3G) of adjacent rigid locking teeth disposed in the samecolumn are aligned. For example, aggregate long axis 710 comprises theindividual long axes 390 (FIG. 3G) of rigid locking teeth 1,1; 1,2; 1,3;and 1,4. Similarly, aggregate long axis 720 comprises the individuallong axes 390 (FIG. 3G) of rigid locking teeth 2,1; 2,2; 2,3; and 2,4.Similarly, aggregate long axis 730 comprises the individual long axes390 (FIG. 3G) of rigid locking teeth 3,1; 3,2; 3,3; and 3,4. Similarly,aggregate long axis 740 comprises the individual long axes 390 (FIG. 3G)of rigid locking teeth 4,1; 2,4; 4,3; and 4,4.

In orientation 700, the short axes 395 (FIG. 3G) of the rigid lockingtooth disposed in the same row are not aligned. For example, rigidlocking teeth 1,1; 2,1; 3,1; and 4,1, are disposed in row 1. Rigidlocking tooth 1,4 comprises short axis 750. Rigid locking tooth 2,4comprises short axis 760. Rigid locking tooth 3,4 comprises short axis770. Rigid locking tooth 4,4 comprises short axis 780. In theillustrated embodiment of FIG. 7C, short axis 750 is not aligned withshort axis 760, which is not aligned with short axis 770, which is notaligned with short axis 780.

FIG. 8A shows a portion of plurality of Applicant's rigid locking teeth,wherein that plurality of rigid locking teeth comprise orientation 800.In certain embodiments, each of the plurality of rigid locking teethshown in FIG. 8A comprises a rigid locking tooth 300. In certainembodiments, each of the plurality of rigid locking teeth shown in FIG.8A comprises a rigid locking tooth 302. In certain embodiments, each ofthe plurality of rigid locking teeth shown in FIG. 8A comprises a rigidlocking tooth 304. In certain embodiments, each of the plurality ofrigid locking teeth shown in FIG. 8A comprises a rigid locking tooth306. In certain embodiments, each of the plurality of rigid lockingteeth shown in FIG. 8A is selected from the group consisting of a rigidlocking tooth 300, a rigid locking tooth 302, a rigid locking tooth 304,and a rigid locking tooth 306.

In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 8A, the plurality of rigid lockingteeth are arranged in columns and rows, namely columns 1, 2, 3, and 4,and rows 1, 2, 3, and 4. In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 8A, rigidlocking tooth 1,1 for example is disposed in column 1 and row 1. For thesake of clarity, FIG. 8A shows a total of 16 rigid locking teeth. Inactual implementation, Applicant's plurality of rigid locking teeth 104comprises between about one hundred, and about ten thousand individualrigid locking teeth.

The rigid locking teeth comprising column 1 are separated from the rigidlocking teeth comprising column 2 by a spacing 802. In certainembodiments, spacing 802 is substantially the same as the width 382(FIG. 3F) of the individual rigid locking teeth. By “substantially thesame,” Applicant means within plus or minus ten percent (10%). In otherembodiments, spacing 802 is less than width 382. In still otherembodiments, spacing 802 is greater than width 382.

Similarly, column 2 and 3 are separated by spacing 804, and column 3 andcolumn 4 are separated by spacing 806. In certain embodiments, spacing804 is substantially the same as the width 382 (FIG. 3F) of theindividual rigid locking teeth. In other embodiments, spacing 804 isless than width 382. In still other embodiments, spacing 804 is greaterthan width 382. In certain embodiments, spacing 806 is substantially thesame as the width 382 (FIG. 3F) of the individual rigid locking teeth.In other embodiments, spacing 806 is less than width 382. In still otherembodiments, spacing 806 is greater than width 382.

In orientation 800 illustrated in FIGS. 8A and 8B, the long axes 390(FIG. 3G) of adjacent rigid locking teeth disposed in the same columnare not aligned. For example, rigid lacking teeth 1,1; 1,2; 1,3; and1,4; comprise long axes 810, 820, 830, and 840, respectively. Long axis810 is not aligned with long axis 820, which is not aligned with longaxis 830, which is not aligned with long axis 840.

In orientation 800, the long axes of the rigid locking teeth in the samerow are parallel. Rigid locking teeth 1,4; 2,4; 3,4; and 4,4, are alldisposed in row 4, and comprise long axes 840, 880, 890, and 895,respectively. As illustrated in FIG. 8B, long axes 840, 880, 890, and895, are parallel to one another.

In orientation 800, the short axes 395 (FIG. 3G) of the rigid lockingtooth disposed in the same row are not aligned. For example, the rigidlocking teeth 1,1; 2,1; 3,1; and 4,1; comprise short axis 815, 850, 860,and 870, respectively, wherein axis 815 is not aligned with axis 850,which is not aligned with axis 860, which is not aligned with axis 870.

FIG. 9A shows a portion of plurality of Applicant's rigid locking teeth,wherein that plurality of rigid locking teeth comprises orientation 900.In certain embodiments, each of the plurality of rigid locking teethshown in FIG. 9A comprises a rigid locking tooth 300. In certainembodiments, each of the plurality of rigid locking teeth shown in FIG.9A comprises a rigid locking tooth 302. In certain embodiments, each ofthe plurality of rigid locking teeth shown in FIG. 9A comprises a rigidlocking tooth 304. In certain embodiments, each of the plurality ofrigid locking teeth shown in FIG. 9A comprises a rigid locking tooth306. In certain embodiments, each of the plurality of rigid lockingteeth shown in FIG. 9A is selected from the group consisting of a rigidlocking tooth 300, a rigid locking tooth 302, a rigid locking tooth 304,and a rigid locking tooth 306.

In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 9A, the plurality of rigid lockingteeth are arranged in columns and rows, namely columns 1, 2, 3, and 4,and rows 1, 2, 3, and 4. In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 9A, rigidlocking tooth 1,1 for example is disposed in column 1 and row 1. For thesake of clarity, FIG. 9A shows a total of 16 rigid locking teeth. Inactual implementation, Applicant's plurality of rigid locking teeth 104comprises between about one hundred, and about ten thousand individualrigid locking teeth.

The rigid locking teeth comprising column 1 are separated from the rigidlocking teeth comprising column 2 by a maximum spacing 902. In certainembodiments, maximum spacing 902 is substantially the same as the width382 (FIG. 3F) of the individual rigid locking teeth. By “substantiallythe same,” Applicant means within plus or minus ten percent (10%). Inother embodiments, maximum spacing 902 is less than width 382. In stillother embodiments, maximum spacing 902 is greater than width 382.

Similarly, column 2 and 3 are separated by spacing maximum 904, andcolumn 3 and column 4 are separated by maximum spacing 906. In certainembodiments, maximum spacing 904 is substantially the same as the width382 (FIG. 3F) of the individual rigid locking teeth. In otherembodiments, maximum spacing 904 is less than width 382. In still otherembodiments, maximum spacing 904 is greater than width 382. In certainembodiments, maximum spacing 906 is substantially the same as the width382 (FIG. 3F) of the individual rigid locking teeth. In otherembodiments, maximum spacing 906 is less than width 382. In still otherembodiments, maximum spacing 906 is greater than width 382.

In orientation 900 illustrated in FIGS. 9A and 9B, the long axes 390(FIG. 3G) of adjacent rigid locking teeth disposed in the same columnare not aligned. For example, rigid locking teeth 1,1; 1,2; 1,3; and1,4; comprise long axes 910, 920, 930, and 940, respectively. Long axis910 is not aligned with long axis 920, which is not aligned with longaxis 930, which is not aligned with long axis 940.

In orientation 900, the long axes of the rigid locking teeth in the samerow are not parallel. Rigid locking teeth 1,4; 2,4; 3,4; and 4,4, areall disposed in row 4, and comprise long axes 940, 980, 990, and 995,respectively. As illustrated in FIG. 8B, long axis 940 is not parallelwith long axis 980, which is not parallel with long axis 990, which isnot parallel with long axis 995. Alternate long axes, such as long axes940 and 990 and long axes 980 and 995, are parallel to one another.

In orientation 900, the short axes 395 (FIG. 3G) of the rigid lockingteeth disposed in the same row are not aligned. For example, the rigidlocking teeth 1,1; 2,1; 3,1; and 4,1; comprise short axis 915, 950, 960,and 970, respectively, wherein axis 915 is not aligned with axis 950,which is not aligned with axis 960, which is not aligned with axis 970.

While the preferred embodiments of the present invention have beenillustrated in detail, it should be apparent that modifications andadaptations to those embodiments may occur to one skilled in the artwithout departing from the scope of the present invention as set forthherein.

I claim:
 1. A method to manufacture a fixturing apparatus, comprising:forming a first assembly and a second assembly, wherein both said firstassembly and said second assembly comprise a bottom, a first lipextending outwardly from said bottom, an opposing second lip extendingoutwardly from said bottom, a first side wall extending outwardly fromsaid bottom and connecting a first end of said first lip and a first endof said second lip, a second side wall extending outwardly from saidbottom and connecting a second end of said first lip and a second end ofsaid second lip, and a plurality of locking teeth extending outwardlyfrom said bottom, wherein said plurality of locking teeth are disposedbetween said first lip, said second lip, said first side, and saidsecond side; forming said fixturing apparatus by attaching said firstassembly to said second assembly; wherein: said first side wallcomprises a first height where said first side wall connects to saidfirst lip; said second side wall comprises said first height where saidsecond side wall connects to said first lip; said first side wallcomprises a second height where said first side wall connects to saidsecond lip; said second side wall comprises said second height wheresaid second side wall connects to said second lip; said first height isgreater than said second height.
 2. The method of claim 1, wherein saidforming further comprises: attaching a top of a first side wall of saidfirst assembly to a top of a second side wall of said second assembly;and attaching a top of a second side wall of said first assembly to atop of a first side wall of said second assembly.
 3. The method of claim2, wherein said attaching comprises ultrasonic welding.
 4. The method ofclaim 3, wherein said attaching comprises adhesive bonding.
 5. Themethod of claim 1, wherein: each first lip and each second lip comprisesa third height; each of said plurality of locking teeth comprises afourth height; wherein: said first height and said second height aregreater than said third height; said fourth height is greater than saidthird height but less than said first height or said second height; saidfixturing apparatus comprises a housing having a trapezoidalcross-section, a first end, and an opposing second end, and is formed toinclude an aperture extending therethrough from the first end to saidsecond end.
 6. The method of claim 5, further comprising: providing aflexible strap having a first end and a second end; attaching saidsecond end of said strap to said housing.
 7. The method of claim 6,wherein said attaching comprises ultrasonic welding.
 8. The method ofclaim 6, wherein said attaching comprises adhesive bonding.
 9. Themethod of claim 6, wherein: said first end of said flexible strap can beinserted into a first end of said aperture, and moved in a firstdirection through said aperture and outwardly therefrom through a secondend of the aperture; after insertion in and through said aperture insaid first direction, said flexible strap cannot be moved-backwardlythrough said aperture in a second and 180 degree opposite direction. 10.The method of claim 1, wherein said forming comprises forming aplurality of locking teeth wherein each looking tooth comprises arectangular base, a first rectangular surface attached to a first end ofsaid rectangular base and extending outwardly therefrom, and a secondrectangular surface attached to an opposing end of said rectangular baseand extending outwardly therefrom, wherein a first rectangular surfacedistal end is attached to a second rectangular surface distal end toform a gripping edge.
 11. The method of claim 1, wherein said formingcomprises forming a plurality of locking teeth wherein each lookingtooth comprises a five-sided structure.
 12. The method of claim 1,wherein said forming comprises forming a plurality of locking teethwherein each looking tooth comprises a six-sided structure.